Purpose of reviewThe incidence of stroke in young adults is increasing, mainly driven by an increasing incidence of ischemic stroke in this population. We provide new information that has been recently presented regarding the risk factor prevalence, some specific etiologic causes, and management strategies in ischemic stroke in this population.Recent findingsRecent studies indicate a rapid increase in traditional risk factors in young adults. New information regarding the management of patent foramen ovale in cryptogenic stroke and cervical artery dissection is available.SummaryStroke in young adults is a rapidly growing problem with deep public health implications. There are many areas in this field, which require further research.